Deer & Deer Hunting Forums: White Tail Deer Hunting Forum

Has anyone tried this gun? I'm particularly interested in the .25-06 for my son but input on the other calibers is welcome too. The reviews of this rifle have been very positive. I'm just wondering if anyone has personally shot it and can confirm just how good a gun it is?

I actually ended up getting him the H&R Single Shot .25-06, Marlin owns H&R now. Nice gun but a little barrel heavy with the long barrel. It also kicks a little more than I expected, actually more than my Marlin 30-30. The good thing is Anthony is a big 12 year old and handles and shoots the gun without a problem. If I were to do it again and especially for a younger kid I would go with the new XS7 from Marlin that now comes in .243, I think that is a better round with less kick and ammunition is easier to find in the stores. The XS7 is also about 1/2 pound lighter than the H&R which doesn't seem like much until your kid walks around with it on their shoulder for a while. I honestly think Anthony's next gun is going to be a Marlin 336W 30-30 just like mine, he really likes how the gun is shorter and better balanced when holding it free hand.

I not sure how I missed this thread. I have the Marlin xl7 in .270 win. I purchased back in October '09. It's a nice rifle. I got it with the intention of allowing my 10 yro to use it when he hunts with me. I like the H&R as well. I have the handi rifle in 45-70 and the sidekick muzzleloader.